Power Assist Add-Ons For Wheelchairs
Add-ons with power assist for wheelchair users allow them to move further and traverse more difficult terrain. They also reduce the amount of energy required to propel the wheelchair, which results in lower heart rates and less muscle fatigue.
The great aspect of these chairs is that they don't alter the appearance of a traditional chair and they can be easily moved. They are also extremely simple to use.
WheelDrive
Front wheel drive wheelchairs are most stable and powerful. The large drive wheels "grab" the road and allow the chair to tackle difficult terrain such as grass, gravel or steps. mymobilityscooters is great for those who need to maneuver your wheelchair through tight spaces. You can easily turn sharply using the front drive.
During the wheelchair selection process your therapist or Assistant Technology Professional (ATP) will consider what base and components will best suit your requirements. An add-on for power assist is also something to consider. There are many options for power assist, such as front-wheel, mid-wheel and rear-wheel power add-ons.
The new and relaunched WheelDrive power add-on from Sunrise Medical offers a unique dual rim design that has different driving modes. The large 'assist' wheel gives you extra power with each push. This reduces fatigue and allows you to increase your speed with each push. While the smaller 'drive' rim provides continuous power to make it easier to climb. The WheelDrive is simple to install on any manual wheelchair, without the need for extra parts or modifications. It can be switched between the two driving modes with an intuitive power button.
The motor's brushless design is powered by batteries of light weight that can be detached and fully charged in under two hours. Its compact design and easy operation makes it a perfect solution for those who require an extra boost for traveling further distances. The WheelDrive is not in need of maintenance unlike other battery-powered power assist add-ons which can be quite difficult to maintain in good condition.
We recommend that you contact one of our ATPs for more information and to view the demonstration if you're considering adding a power wheelchair that has front-wheel drive to your manual wheelchair. If you are considering the new Empulse 4Front 2 power wheelchair the standard FrontDrive system includes iLevel, which increases your safe seat elevation to 12 inches. This allows you to complete everyday activities that require mobility life, like getting up, grooming and toileting at a more independent height, which will help you live healthier and more joyfully.
Rear Power Assist Add-ons
Power wheelchairs can help reduce the amount of effort required to propel manually-driven wheelchairs. They also aid in maintaining the health of your shoulders and reduce the fear of injury associated with sustained, repetitive, manual propulsion. You can go further, navigate steep slopes, and maneuver through challenging environments by incorporating power assist into your chair.
The power add-ons to wheelchairs can be classified into three categories: rear attachments, that are similar to the SmartDrive, front attachments that raise the wheels of manual chairs off the ground (similarly to a bicycle), and hybrid systems that combine both features. Front attachments are usually controlled via a hand-rim activated device, such as the Alber Smoov or Klaxon Twist and rear attachments are typically joystick-converting devices, such as the Alber E-Motion or SmartDrive.
Some of these wheelchair power accessories are powered by a rechargeable battery as well as others, such as the WheelDrive are connected to the motor of the wheelchair and powered by kinetic energy from the wheel rotation. The ones powered by batteries are generally smaller and lighter than those that rely on energy from the kinetic force to drive the wheels.
One of the most well-known wheelchair power accessories is the Spinergy ZX-1, which attaches to the back axel of rigid and folding frame wheelchairs. It comes with three different support levels that can be adjusted with the push of one button. It is also easy to switch from manual mode to power mode and then back again.
Another option is the BATEC Manual Power Assist Wheel, which also has three different levels of support and can be controlled with the joystick, making it ideal for those who require different levels of assistance from power sources in various settings. These kinds of power accessories can also be used to help relieve pressure on shoulders and elbows which allows you to go further with less effort. This is especially useful when you are concerned about the effects of long-distance propulsion on your shoulders.
Active User Wheelchairs
Active user wheelchairs are designed for those who want to be independent and mobile and lead an active lifestyle. They are lighter and easier to maneuver than self-propelled wheelchairs. This means that the upper body will be less fatigued. They are also able to travel on difficult terrains for longer distances with no assistance.
A wheelchair that is specifically designed for active use will usually have a compact frame size that helps increase manoeuvrability. Additionally, the rear wheels are typically larger than standard wheelchairs in order to enable the user to easily reach them and move forward. The backrest is typically lower so that the user can move their arms and shoulders freely while self-propelling.
Powered add-ons can be used to boost the efficiency of your wheelchair for active users. They can provide extra power when needed. This can be beneficial when going up and down hills, for long distances, or when the user feels exhausted. A powered accessory can be controlled by the user through voice commands or by moving their eyes. This can help with independence and reduce the need for someone to push them.
E-bike attachments for wheelchairs are a novel and exciting way to increase mobility and efficiency. They attach to the front of a wheelchair and transform it into a tri-wheeled hand bike that allows the user to travel faster and farther than they would on their own. This is a great choice for those who want to commute to work, run some errands, or simply enjoy a relaxing ride. A power bike can be adjusted to meet the individual's preferences and needs, with different angles for the rear wheel available along with the ability to adjust the seating tension and footrest position. This gives you the most flexibility and individualization.
Foldable Power Assist Device
Power add-ons can be attached to the rear wheels of manual wheelchairs and replace the existing rear wheels. They are easy to operate and allow users to travel greater distances to be covered with less effort. These are typically lightweight and feature advanced control systems to adjust programming, monitor battery level and fault detection remotely.
These are accessories from the aftermarket that can be connected to a variety of manual wheelchairs that fold, such as the SmartDrive MX2+. Examples include the SmartDrive MX2+ or Alber Smoov. The device is activated by pressing an appropriate button or switch and controlled with a wireless wristband. Some also come with an integrated push tracker that can keep track of how long the power add-on has been used.
They can help individuals climb hills and other obstacles without difficulty. They help users maintain their independence by completing daily activities, work and socializing with family and friends.
In some cases, a power assisted option can reduce the amount of pressure placed on the person. In addition they have been proven to cut down on the time it takes a person to perform tasks that require mobility and aid in overcoming obstacles like steps, inclines, and curb cuts.
Many power-assist devices that fold offer the added benefit of being portable, enabling users to carry their wheelchairs with them on their trips in the family vehicle without the need for a fully equipped van. They can be removed from the chair for transport to work or other activities and then reattached on return. This could help people keep their paid job, volunteer work and other endeavors to continue to be a valued community member and contribute to the society.
When not in use non-folding power assist devices are typically heavier and larger. A lot of them fold and have their accessories removed for even more space. They can be tucked away in the trunk of any family vehicle. This allows people to travel with their families, to work, to other places and even visit friends and family.